Nonoperative management of late failure of a Glenn anastomosis. Transvenous wafer occlusion of patent superior vena cava--right atrial junction.

A case is presented illustrating delayed failure of a right Glenn anastomosis due to patency of the superior vena cava-right atrial (SVC-RA) junction. Clinical deterioration was rectified by a unique nonoperative approach. A transvenous catheter was designed, constructed, and used to accurately place an umbrella-like occlusive wafer at the SVC-RA junction. In this manner the integrity of the cavopulmonary shunt was re-established. A gratifying and uncomplicated palliation has thus far been achieved.